India and Uzbekistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties during the 14th Session of the India-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation. The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, and Mr. Shokhrukh Gulamov, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan. The session was held in Tashkent, with the Indian delegation participating virtually.
During the meeting, both countries reviewed the entire spectrum of economic cooperation and highlighted the growing strategic importance of their relationship. Officials noted that the partnership is built on strong historical and cultural connections and has gained further momentum under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Addressing the session, Shri Rajesh Agrawal highlighted India’s strong economic performance and expanding global trade footprint. He noted that India’s total exports of goods and services during FY 2025-26 were estimated at US$ 860.09 billion. Exports in the first two months of FY 2026-27 reached US$ 162.69 billion, reflecting a growth of 14.66 percent over the corresponding period of the previous year. Merchandise exports recorded a growth of 16.09 percent, driven by sectors such as engineering goods, electronics, chemicals, petroleum products, and gems and jewellery.
The Commission welcomed the continued growth in trade between the two nations. Uzbekistan reported that bilateral trade turnover reached US$ 1.3 billion in 2025, representing an increase of 33.3 percent compared to the previous year. Uzbekistan’s exports to India rose to US$ 164.6 million, while imports from India reached US$ 1.15 billion. Indian exports to Uzbekistan have registered a compound annual growth rate of 12.9 percent over the last decade. Additionally, India’s services exports to Uzbekistan stood at US$ 372.2 million in 2024.
Both sides identified several sectors with significant potential for expanding trade and investment. These include pharmaceuticals, medical devices, agricultural products, processed foods, farm machinery, engineering goods, electronics, automobiles and auto components, textiles, chemicals, healthcare, education, tourism, logistics, and professional services. The expanded trade basket is expected to create new opportunities for farmers, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women entrepreneurs, and emerging businesses in India.
Pharmaceuticals emerged as a major focus area during the discussions. India reiterated its position as a leading global supplier of affordable and high-quality medicines, vaccines, and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Both countries agreed to explore greater cooperation in the healthcare sector to improve access to medical products and services.
Agriculture and allied industries also featured prominently in the deliberations. The two sides acknowledged India’s expertise in agricultural exports, seed development, agricultural research, food processing, and climate-resilient farming technologies. Opportunities for collaboration in these areas were discussed to support food security and sustainable agricultural development.
The Commission also explored avenues for cooperation in information and communication technology (ICT) and digital transformation. India showcased its strengths in digital public infrastructure, fintech, cybersecurity, telecommunications, health technology, digital education, and engineering consultancy services. The Indian side proposed greater collaboration in customs data exchange and the possible integration of payment systems to facilitate secure and efficient transactions for trade and tourism.
Energy cooperation was identified as another strategic priority. India emphasized the growing demand for reliable and clean energy sources to support its expanding digital economy, including artificial intelligence applications, data centres, and advanced computing infrastructure. In this context, critical minerals and resource security were highlighted as promising areas for bilateral collaboration.
Addressing trade facilitation issues, the Indian side stressed the importance of reducing non-tariff barriers related to standards, certifications, customs procedures, and regulatory approvals. Both countries agreed that enhanced dialogue between regulators and standards bodies, along with a structured mechanism for resolving trade-related issues, would help accelerate commercial exchanges.
Recognizing the importance of connectivity, the two sides discussed ways to improve transport and logistics networks. Uzbekistan offered to share its experience in digital logistics platforms and customs facilitation systems to enhance trade efficiency.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to encourage stronger engagement between business communities, chambers of commerce, export promotion organizations, and industry associations. Both countries also agreed to hold the 15th Session of the Intergovernmental Commission in India on a mutually convenient date, signalling a renewed drive to deepen economic cooperation and unlock new opportunities for growth and development.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
